Edward Dick "Willy" Wilhelm, Jr.

Edward Dick “Willy” Wilhelm, 74, affectionately known as “Papa,” passed away peacefully at his home on December 29, 2025, surrounded by the love and comfort of his family.

Born on August 29, 1951, he was the son of the late Edward Dick Wilhelm, Sr. and Mary T. Wilhelm. He was a 1969 graduate of New Philadelphia High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army. During his service, he earned the National Defense Service Medal and was honorably discharged with the rank of E-4.

Throughout the 70s and 80s, he helped spearhead the construction of nursing homes and many other types of facilities. He later established his own business, Wilhelm Remodel–Repair–Maintenance, where his skill and dedication were well known.

Above all else, Willy was a devoted family man. He treasured his family deeply and was always willing to lend a helping hand, no matter the time of day. Summers often found him on the golf course with family and friends, and as a devoted Ohio sports fan, there was always a game playing on the television. He had a love for classic rock and never missed an opportunity to light up the dance floor, often becoming the life of the party.

Willy was an active member of the VFW and the Elks Lodge and was known as a gifted storyteller who could turn any conversation into a memorable moment filled with laughter. Most importantly, he was a loving husband and father, a steadfast protector and provider, and the heart of his family.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Connie Wilhelm of 31 years; his children, Eric (Sunny) Wilhelm of Wellsville, Jen Barkley of New Philadelphia, Heather Edwards of New Philadelphia, Evan (Shannon) Brown of Mineral City, and BJ (Michelle) Brown of Dover; grandchildren, Brandon, Alexa (Jesse) Bailey, Ethan, Jack and Alex; best buddies, Gary Stephan, Reynold “Wizzy” Wisintainer; mother-in-law, Virginia Ballentine of New Philadelphia; sisters, Victoria Wilhelm of New Philadelphia and Kristine Knisley of Shallotte, NC; sister-in-law, Heidi Wilhelm of Texas; brothers-in-law, Ben (Bobbie) Ballentine of New Philadelphia and Perry (companion, Donna Zadra) Ballentine of New Philadelphia; many loving nieces and nephews and cousins; and former wife, Ina Roberts of New Philadelphia.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Mark “Gus” Wilhelm; and father-in-law, Jack Ballentine.

A memorial gathering will be held in the Linn-Hert-Geib Funeral Home & Crematory at New Philadelphia on Sunday, January 4, 2026 from 1 to 3 p.m.

Memorial contributions in Willy’s memory may be directed to Traditions Hospice.